Coach Hugo Broos of Bafana Bafana insists on the importance of humility and focus as the team prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. He stresses adherence to their game plan and respect for opponents, while acknowledging Lesotho’s competitive nature. The match marks a significant opportunity for Bafana to enhance their World Cup qualifying hopes.
Bafana Bafana’s coach, Hugo Broos, emphasized the necessity of maintaining humility as the team prepares for a significant World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday. With the match being pivotal for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Broos stressed the importance of adhering to their game plan to secure a victory against a neighboring opponent ranked 45th in Africa and 149th globally.
Broos stated that all selected players are fit and highlighted the unpredictable nature of African football, referencing the recent goalless draw between Cameroon and Lesotho. He acknowledged Lesotho’s competitive spirit, noting that they secured five points in their qualifiers and narrowly lost to Morocco in their last match.
Emphasizing the high stakes, Broos reminded the squad of their historical success in recent tournaments, including a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he cautioned against relying on past achievements, insisting that they must earn their success through hard work.
Broos remarked on Lesotho’s solid fighting mentality, acknowledging that while they may lack technical prowess, their determination will pose a challenge. He called for his team to match that mentality, warning that failure to adhere to their strategy could lead to difficulties during the game.
Reflecting on past encounters, Broos noted the importance of respecting all opponents, especially as every player aspires to qualify for the upcoming World Cup. He stressed the motivational differences between previous friendly matches and the current competitive context, reinforcing the belief in his team’s capabilities compared to two or three years ago.
Expected to field his regular starting XI, Broos’s lineup will feature Ronwen Williams as goalkeeper, Khuliso Mudau and Fawaaz Basadien as backs, and Grant Kekana alongside Siyabonga Ngezana in central defense. The midfield will see Teboho Mokoena team up with either Bathusi Aubaas or Jayden Adams, while Oswin Appollis and Elias Mokwana are anticipated to occupy the wings, with Percy Tau potentially leading the attack alongside either Iqraam Rayners or Lyle Foster.
In summary, Coach Hugo Broos of Bafana Bafana urges his squad to remain humble and focused as they prepare for a challenging World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. He underscores the importance of executing their game plan while avoiding complacency against a motivated opponent. The match represents a critical opportunity for Bafana to strengthen their position in the qualifying standings, with players fully aware of the significance of this encounter. Broos emphasizes that past performances will not guarantee success and calls for a strong collective effort from his team.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
